Why visit China?
China offers a compelling blend of ancient heritage, futuristic skylines, and distinct regional cultures, all within one vast country. From imperial capitals to river valleys and subtropical coasts, you can experience many sides of Asia in a single journey.
What to expect
You will find lively megacities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, alongside historic centres and scenic hinterlands. Each region has its own architecture, dialects, and seasonal landscapes, from misty mountains to modern waterfronts.
Plan your trip
You can use major cities as gateways for deeper exploration, combining coastal hubs with inland centres like Chengdu and Chongqing. With strong domestic links and onward connections, China works well as both a standalone destination and a starting point to explore the wider region.
Discover China
Discover China
Top experiences in China
Walk through Beijing's imperial heart
Stroll wide ceremonial avenues, palace courtyards, and historic neighbourhoods that tell the story of China’s imperial past beside a thoroughly modern capital skyline.
Explore Shanghai's waterfront and skyline
Take in riverfront promenades, restored historic districts, and soaring towers that showcase the city’s role as a global crossroads.
Discover Guangzhou and Shenzhen's Pearl River Delta
Experience fast-paced urban life, creative districts, and riverside scenery in one of China’s most dynamic economic regions.
Unwind in Chengdu's relaxed cityscape
Enjoy leafy streets, teahouses, and green spaces that frame the city’s easy-going pace and gateway position to western China.
Follow history through Hangzhou and nearby water towns
Combine lakeside views and classical gardens with day trips to traditional canal towns, connected by efficient transport links.
Trace river life around Chongqing
See steep hillsides, confluences of major rivers, and dramatic city views that highlight the region’s role as a key inland port.
Relax along Xiamen's island shoreline
Walk coastal paths, island promenades, and tree-lined streets that mix maritime heritage with a modern, open outlook.
Experience China’s way of life
Getting around
High-speed rail, extensive domestic flights, and well-developed metro networks link China’s major cities, making multi-city itineraries straightforward. You can often combine air and rail, using hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu as your bases.
Local life & culture
Daily life in China moves quickly in the big cities yet still leaves room for neighbourhood parks, teahouses, and public squares. You will notice strong regional identities, from language and festivals to architecture, with each city offering its own rhythm and local character.
Where to unwind
Across China, you can escape into riverside promenades, hilltop viewpoints, and lakeside parks within easy reach of downtown areas. Coastal walks in Xiamen, green spaces in Chengdu, and waterfront paths in Shanghai and Hangzhou give you calm breaks from the urban energy.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
China’s regional cuisines are as varied as its landscapes, with capital favourites in Beijing, refined dishes in Hangzhou, and bold flavours in Chengdu and Chongqing. Guangzhou and the wider Pearl River Delta are known for fresh produce and delicate preparation styles.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major cities like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing, you will find everything from neighbourhood eateries to contemporary restaurants in business districts and malls. Food streets, cafés, and casual venues offer an easy introduction to the country’s different styles of cooking.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, seek out venues with skyline or waterfront views in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, or lake and garden outlooks in Hangzhou. In many cities, high-floor restaurants and river-facing districts turn an ordinary dinner into a scenic occasion.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen feature large malls that combine international labels with local designers and lifestyle brands. Many complexes integrate dining, cinemas, and indoor attractions, so you can easily spend a full afternoon there.
Markets & local crafts
You will find markets and shopping streets with local crafts and souvenirs in cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Hangzhou. Smaller districts in Xiamen and Chongqing often highlight regional products, from textiles and paper goods to decorative objects.
Evening retail scene
After dark, many city shopping streets glow with illuminated storefronts and lively squares. In busier districts of Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, you can browse late-opening stores, stop for a drink, and watch the city lights come on around you.
Best time to visit China
Spring shoulder season (March to May): Temperatures across many eastern and southern cities range from about 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F), with mild, changeable weather and blooming parks.
Summer peak season (June to August): In cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, typical temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), with humid conditions and occasional heavy showers.
Autumn shoulder season (September to November): Many regions experience comfortable days between 12°C and 24°C (54°F to 75°F), clearer skies, and pleasant conditions for city walks and day trips.
Winter low season (December to February): Northern cities can see averages from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), while southern areas are often milder, around 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F).